MPs to debate motion to begin military action against group in Syria, amid divisions within government and opposition.
The British parliament is set to debate and vote on a motion authorising the use of military force against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) group in Syria.
The move comes amid divisions over the planned intervention within Prime Minister David Cameron's own Conservative Party and the opposition Labour Party.
Several Conservative MPs are expected to vote on Wednesday against the proposal and the government will probably rely on Labour MPs breaking ranks with their leader Jeremy Corbyn to pass approve the move.
|
|
"[The government] acknowledges the importance of seeking to avoid civilian casualties, using the UK’s particular capabilities; notes the government will not deploy UK troops in ground combat operations," the motion reads.
The plan to strike ISIL in Syria is backed by a majority of the British people, according to two recent polls, but has prompted anti-war demonstrations.
Thousands turned out onto the streets of London and other cities across the UK on Saturday to voice their opposition to the air strikes and hundreds protested outside parliament on Tuesday, the day Cameron announced the debate.
ANALYSIS: What the British military really contributes in Syria
Critics argue that striking Syria will now will put civilian lives at risk and further complicate the Syrian Civil War, which has already killed hundreds of thousands.
Cameron drew up plans to hit ISIL in Syria after the November 13 attacks in Paris, which left 130 people dead.
British forces are already targeting ISIL in Iraq and have previously targeted British ISIL members with drone strikes in Syria.
No comments:
Post a Comment